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Helicopter engine failure during cruise flight results in hard landing (N5008N)

Miami, FL, US

On January 28, 1995, a Bell 206-B3 (registration N5008N) was involved in an aviation accident near Miami, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain engine power due to a loose compressor discharge line at the fuel control, which led to a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter experienced an engine power loss approximately 800 feet above a football stadium while in cruise flight. The pilot executed an autorotation to avoid overhead wires, resulting in a hard landing that damaged the aircraft's belly and transmission mounts.

What happened

During cruise flight, the helicopter was operating at an altitude of approximately 800 feet over a football stadium when the engine suddenly lost power. Recognizing the emergency, the pilot immediately initiated an autorotation. To ensure safety during the descent, the pilot applied collective pitch early in the maneuver to maintain sufficient clearance from nearby overhead wires.

The helicopter subsequently landed hard on the ground. The impact caused significant structural damage to the aircraft, specifically affecting the belly and the transmission mounts.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators examined the engine to determine the root cause of the power loss. The inspection revealed that the compressor discharge line was loose at the fuel control unit. This mechanical failure prevented the engine from maintaining proper operation during the cruise phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain engine power due to a loose compressor discharge line at the fuel control, which led to a hard landing.
Maintenance error

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jan 1995 Bell 206-B3 accident near Miami, FL?

A helicopter experienced an engine power loss approximately 800 feet above a football stadium while in cruise flight. The pilot executed an autorotation to avoid overhead wires, resulting in a hard landing that damaged the aircraft's belly and transmission mounts.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 Jan 1995 Bell 206-B3 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jan 1995 involved a Bell 206-B3, registration N5008N, at Miami, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to maintain engine power due to a loose compressor discharge line at the fuel control, which led to a hard landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X02900. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.